Effects of creatine treatment at low temperature on the development of ovarian follicles before sexual maturity in Pelodiscus sinensis

Abstract

As a nitrogen-containing organic acid, creatine can stabilize cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and promote growth. For reptiles with hibernation habits, creatine has a special role in regulating energy metabolism under low temperature conditions. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of creatine on the ovarian development of Pelodiscus sinensis (P. sinensis) under low temperature. After 8 weeks of creatine treatment, in the ovaries of the low concentration creatine treatment group, follicle diameter, yolk granule accumulation, creatine kinase (CK) expression, and glycogen content were all significantly increased (p < 0.05), while the lactic acid content significantly decreased (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in ovarian weight and of number of follicles between the high concentration treatment group and the GPA treatment group when compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Therefore, the metabolism of the ovary at low temperatures is of great significance in growth and development. It is suggested that creatine may play an important role in improving ovarian development under low temperature conditions for P. sinensis. This study also provides a theoretical basis to enhance the female fertility in other hibernating animals.